Fort Patrick Henry Dam, located in Kingsport, Tennessee, is a key structure managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority for flood risk reduction along the South Fork Holston River.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1953, this concrete gravity dam stands at 90 feet tall and spans 625 feet in length, with a hydraulic height of 83 feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, but it also serves for hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply, showcasing its multi-functional importance in the region.
With a storage capacity of 31,728 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 164,000 cubic feet per second, Fort Patrick Henry Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. The dam's controlled spillway, Tainter radial outlet gates, and high hazard potential highlight the engineering complexity and risk management measures in place. Although the condition assessment is not available, the dam's risk assessment indicates a very high risk level, warranting regular inspections and emergency action planning to ensure public safety and water security for the surrounding community.
The dam's association with the Tennessee Valley Authority underscores its federal ownership and oversight, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between government agencies in water resource management. Fort Patrick Henry Dam not only stands as a symbol of engineering excellence but also serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between water infrastructure, climate resilience, and the protection of natural resources in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
625 |
Dam Height |
90 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH FORK HOLSTON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
840 |
Hydraulic Height |
83 |
Drainage Area |
1903 |
Nid Storage |
31728 |
Structural Height |
95 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
95 |
N F Holston River Near Gate City
|
679cfs |
Clinch River At Speers Ferry
|
1320cfs |
Watauga River At Elizabethton
|
423cfs |
Doe River At Elizabethton
|
293cfs |
Big Limestone Creek Near Limestone
|
25cfs |
Nolichucky River At Embreeville
|
2020cfs |